Phuket, Thailand – The head of Phuket Immigration has strongly rejected a recent UK media report alleging that the island has become a haven for drug-fueled foreign tourists, calling the claims “exaggerated and misleading.”
The rebuttal comes after a British newspaper published an investigation suggesting Phuket – particularly areas like Patong and Kata – was attracting “party tourists” seeking easy access to drugs like cocaine, ecstasy, and methamphetamine. The report cited anonymous sources claiming lax enforcement and corrupt officials enabled the drug scene.
“These generalizations are unfair and do not reflect our ongoing efforts,” said Pol. Col. Thanet Sukchai, Superintendent of Phuket Immigration. “We conduct daily operations targeting drug networks and routinely deport foreigners involved in narcotics.”
Col. Thanet presented data showing increased anti-drug measures:
- 1,238 foreigners arrested for drug offenses in Phuket in 2023 (up 22% YoY)
- 63 UK nationals deported for drug-related crimes last year
- Recent busts of cocaine rings supplying tourist areas
However, he acknowledged challenges:
- “Dark web” drug deliveries to guesthouses
- Some corrupt taxi drivers/massage staff acting as middlemen
Local Reaction Mixed
- Bar owners deny systemic issues but admit “isolated cases”
- Tourism operators worry about reputational damage
- Expats criticize UK report as “old stereotypes”
What’s Next?
- Phuket police planning undercover operations in nightlife zones
- Proposed mandatory drug tests for visa extensions
- UK Embassy liaison meetings requested
“We welcome tourists, not criminals,” Col. Thanet stressed, noting that most visitors enjoy Phuket responsibly. The immigration chief invited foreign media to witness anti-drug operations firsthand.
Additional reporting by Phuket Gazette
Key Stats
✔️ 19 foreign-run drug networks dismantled in 2023
✔️ 412 kg of drugs seized at Phuket International Airport last year
✔️ 87% of drug arrests involve Thai nationals (per police data)
Authorities urge tourists to report suspicious activity via Phuket Tourist Police Hotline 1155.
